The South Texas Business Aviation Association (STXBAA)’s inaugural Aviation Safety Seminar brings together an impressive lineup of speakers from across aviation, aerospace and emerging technology for an afternoon focused on safety, leadership and innovation.
WHEN: Friday, August 21, 2026
Seminar: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Network Mixer: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
WHERE: Galaxy FBO at the Conroe North Houston Regional Airport (CXO)
TO REGISTER: Please visit stxbaa.wildapricot.org
FEATURED SPEAKERS
- Mario Jimenez, WYVERN — “Briefing and Debriefing Tools – A New and Effective Approach”
Mario is a respected aviation safety professional and Flight Leader Coach with WYVERN, bringing extensive experience in operational safety, risk management, and the human factors that influence flight operations. His work focuses on helping aviation organizations develop practical tools and stronger safety cultures that extend beyond regulatory compliance. Mario has contributed to WYVERN safety guidance on topics including circling approaches and stabilized approaches, providing operators with practical resources for identifying, managing, and mitigating operational risk. - Kevin “K2” LaRosa — “Soaring to Success: Building Trust, Safety, and Collaboration in High-Stakes Filmmaking”
Kevin “K2” LaRosa is an acclaimed motion picture aerial coordinator, stunt pilot, and aerial cinematography specialist whose work has helped create some of Hollywood’s most memorable aviation sequences. A second-generation film and television pilot, K2 has worked on productions including Top Gun: Maverick, Devotion, Iron Man, The Avengers, and Transformers. For Top Gun: Maverick, he played a major role in coordinating complex aerial operations and helped develop the specialized L-39 CineJet used to capture high-speed aerial footage. An accomplished fixed-wing and helicopter pilot, K2’s career requires balancing creativity and precision with meticulous planning, teamwork, risk management, and safety. - Wesley Bonura, NASA — “Inside NASA: Conducting Safe Human Vacuum Tests Where Failure Isn’t an Option”
Wesley Bonura graduated from Texas A&M in 2022 with a bachelors in Aerospace Engineering. He has worked at NASA for the last four years in the Crew and Thermal Systems Division, first as a Test Director and then as Lead Test Director. Within their group they operate 5 thermal vacuum chambers, three thermal only chambers, and four human-rated vacuum chambers. They frequently run hazardous human-in-the-loop tests for both astronaut training and human research, so safety is at the forefront of everything they do. - Carmen Simboli, Prime Air — “Prime Air’s Drone Ecosystem: Airspace Analysis, Cutting-Edge Technology, and a Vision for What’s Next”
Carmen serves as an Airspace Integration Specialist at Amazon Prime Air, where he oversees airspace integration and UAS Traffic Management (UTM) strategy. In this role, he leads efforts to ensure Prime Air can safely operate and integrate into the National Airspace System (NAS) through a holistic approach to safety. Carmen brings over 15 years of broad aviation experience, including a decade in the United States Air Force, complemented by additional years as a federal civilian employee with the Department of Defense and the Federal Aviation Administration. His career spans roles as an air traffic controller, combat airspace manager, and flight procedure specialist. Experience that provides him with deep expertise in airspace operations, safety standards, and regulatory frameworks.
From proven business aviation safety practices to lessons learned in some of the world’s most demanding aerospace environments, the STXBAA Safety Seminar offers attendees an opportunity to hear directly from professionals working at the forefront of their fields.
After-Event Mixer & Networking
Following the seminar, Galaxy FBO is also sponsoring an STXBAA After-Event Mixer from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar, located on the third floor of the Galaxy FBO at CXO airport.. Attendees are invited to stay for drinks, appetizers and an opportunity to connect with fellow members of the South Texas business aviation community. Thanks to the generous support of our event sponsors, After-Event Mixer are complimentary to attend and all remaining donations and proceeds are directed to the STXBAA Scholarship Fund, helping support the next generation of aviation professionals.
Galaxy FBO is proud to support STXBAA alongside:
Space is limited!
Please visit stxbaa.wildapricot.org to register today!
This year, our Addison FBO Experience Manager, Lisa Peterson, represented Galaxy FBO at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) 2026 DC Fly-In in Washington, D.C. Joining business aviation professionals from across Texas and the nation, Lisa met with members of Congress and their staff to discuss the issues that will define the future of business aviation in the United States.
During the Fly-In, the Texas delegation met with staff from the offices of Senator Ted Cruz, Senator John Cornyn, Representative Keith Self, Representative Pat Fallon, Representative Julie Johnson, and Representative Brandon Gill. The group also heard from Annie Brody, Director of Coalitions for the Office of the Majority Whip, who provided valuable insight into the legislative process and the importance of industry participation in shaping public policy.
The meeting with Representative Keith Self allowed the group to share why they had traveled to Washington and discuss the critical role business aviation plays throughout Texas and across the nation. The discussion continued with his staff, becoming one of the most engaging meetings of the day, strengthened by the fact that one member of the delegation was a constituent from Representative Self’s district.
The delegation focused on several legislative priorities that are essential to maintaining a safe, efficient, and innovative aviation industry:
- Modernizing the nation’s air traffic control system to improve safety and operational efficiency.
- Supporting aviation workforce development while ensuring the FAA has the resources necessary to maintain the world’s safest aviation system.
- Encouraging continued investment in innovation, including Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and emerging aviation technologies.
- Recognizing the tremendous economic impact business aviation has on businesses, local communities, emergency response, and humanitarian missions.
These conversations are particularly meaningful for companies like Galaxy FBO because the policies discussed in Washington directly affect our customers, our employees, and the long-term health of the industry we proudly serve.


Business Aviation’s Impact Extends Far Beyond Airports
One message consistently reinforced throughout the Fly-In was the tremendous value business aviation provides to the United States.
Today, business aviation supports more than 1.3 million American jobs and contributes nearly $340 billion annually to the U.S. economy. Beyond its economic impact, business aviation connects communities without commercial airline service, enables companies to reach customers and facilities efficiently, and provides critical support during disaster relief efforts, medical transport missions, and humanitarian operations.
For those of us working in Fixed Base Operations (FBOs), these statistics aren’t just numbers, but they represent the businesses, pilots, passengers, maintenance professionals, and communities we serve every day.
Reflecting on the experience, Lisa identified several key takeaways from her first DC Fly-In.
- Advocacy matters. Meeting directly with legislators and congressional staff demonstrated how valuable firsthand industry perspectives can be. These conversations help policymakers better understand how business aviation supports economic growth, creates jobs, and serves communities across America.
- Relationships drive progress. Whether engaging with congressional offices or networking with aviation professionals from around the country, the relationships built during the Fly-In strengthen the industry’s collective voice and create opportunities for future collaboration.
- Business aviation has an incredible story to tell. From workforce development and safety to innovation and economic impact, the industry contributes far more than many people realize. Sharing that story is essential to ensuring policymakers understand the importance of continued investment in aviation.
At Galaxy FBO, we believe investing in our people means empowering them to become leaders—not only within our company, but throughout the aviation community.
We’re proud to support professional development opportunities like the NBAA DC Fly-In, allowing team members to represent both Galaxy FBO and the broader business aviation industry on Capitol Hill. Through advocacy, collaboration, and continued engagement, we can help ensure that business aviation remains a vital driver of economic growth, innovation, and connectivity for generations to come.
We are grateful that Lisa represented Galaxy FBO with passion, and thank the NBAA for organizing another successful DC Fly-In that brings together aviation professionals committed to advancing the future of our industry.
Whether you’re flying in for a match or hosting international guests, Galaxy FBO’s premier facilities in Houston (HOU), Conroe (CXO), and Addison (ADS) are ready to welcome you with seamless, world-class aviation services.
Houston Match Schedule – NRG / Houston Stadium
June 14, 2026: Germany 🇩🇪 vs Curaçao 🇨🇼June 17, 2026: Portugal 🇵🇹 vs DR CongoJune 20, 2026: Netherlands 🇳🇱 vs SwedenJune 23, 2026: Portugal 🇵🇹 vs Uzbekistan 🇺🇿June 26, 2026: Cabo Verde 🇨🇻 vs Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦June 29, 2026: Brazil vs Japan- July 4, 2026: Canada vs Morocco
Fans flying in for Houston’s matches will find Galaxy FBO at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) the most convenient gateway — located just minutes from NRG Stadium, with U.S. Customs, executive lounges, and concierge ground transportation available.
For those seeking a more relaxed arrival, Galaxy FBO at Conroe North Houston Regional Airport (CXO) offers spacious hangars, ramp space, and luxury amenities; ideal for avoiding heavy event traffic while staying within easy reach of downtown Houston.
Dallas Match Schedule – AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas (Dallas Stadium)
June 14, 2026: Netherlands 🇳🇱 vs Japan 🇯🇵 (Group F)June 17, 2026: England vs Croatia 🇭🇷 (Group L)June 22, 2026: Argentina 🇦🇷 vs Austria 🇦🇹 (Group J)June 25, 2026: Japan 🇯🇵 vs Albania/Poland/Sweden/Ukraine (Group F)June 27, 2026: Algeria vs. Austria- June 30, 2026: Cote d’ivoire – Norway
- July 3, 2026: Australia – Egypt
- July 6, 2026: Match 93
- July 14, 2026: Match 101 – Semi-Final
For travelers attending matches in Dallas or Arlington, Galaxy FBO at Addison Airport (ADS) offers the perfect combination of convenience, privacy, and efficiency; just minutes from major highways and within easy reach of the Dallas Stadium.
With the world watching, Texas is set to become a global hub for business and leisure aviation. Galaxy FBO is ready to ensure that your World Cup experience, from arrival to departure is smooth, comfortable, and memorable.
Why Choose Galaxy FBO
- Premium facilities serving Houston and Dallas Metroplex
- Fast and secure arrivals with U.S. Customs clearance
- Luxury passenger and crew amenities
- Ground transportation coordination (car rentals, chauffeurs, hotel arrangements)
- Large hangar space and ramp capacity for all aircraft types
- Award-winning team, with utmost safety standards (IS-BAH Stage 2 Certified)
- Whether you’re flying fans, athletes, or executives, Galaxy FBO delivers a championship-level experience at every touchpoint.
Plan Ahead for World Cup 2026
Advance planning for aircraft parking, ground handling, and accommodations is strongly recommended.
Runway incursions remain a serious concern nationally. Conroe North Houston Regional Airport is conducting its annual Runway Safety Action Team (RSAT) meeting on June 25, 2026.
(more…)Join us on July 24, 2026 for the South Texas Business Aviation Association (STXBAA) Aviation Law Seminar with Coats Aviation Law, PC. This day long event is tailored for aircraft owners, flight departments, operators, and business aviation service providers. Attendees will receive actionable legal insights on the most pressing topics impacting aviation professionals.
Seminar Highlights:
- Aircraft tax strategies and state/federal compliance
- FAA regulations, including Part 91 and Part 135 operations
- Aircraft transactions, leases, and ownership structures
- Insurance best practices and risk mitigation
- And more—delivered by experienced aviation law professionals
Event Details
- When: Friday, July 24, 2026
- Where: Galaxy FBO at the Conroe North Houston Regional Airport
Registration
- Please visit STXBAA’s website at stxbaa.org
Galaxy FBO was once again named the #1 Small FBO Chain (3–10 locations)—marking its fourth consecutive year earning this top distinction in 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026. With an exceptional chain-wide score of 9.71 (up from 9.68 a year ago), Galaxy FBO continues to set the standard for excellence across its Texas based locations.


The Professional Pilot PRASE (Preferences Regarding Aviation Services and Equipment) Survey, now in its 52nd year, is one of the most trusted benchmarks in the business aviation industry. In 2026, a total of 6861 individual evaluations were submitted by qualified operators, scoring FBOs on the core elements that matter most to pilots, dispatchers, and flight departments.
Galaxy FBO’s continued presence at the top of the rankings is a testament to its relentless focus on customer service, operational excellence, and facility innovation. Whether you’re flying to Greater Houston or Dallas Metroplex – Galaxy FBO provides a seamless and elevated ground experience.
MAC Air Group, headquartered at Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Portland, Maine, has operated as a cornerstone of general aviation in the Northeast since 1959; building a reputation for safety, service, and operational excellence across six decades and three generations of the Caruso family.
This acquisition reflects Black Forest Ventures Aviation’s deliberate, disciplined approach to portfolio growth: identifying operators who have already earned the trust of their markets, and investing in their continued success. Both Galaxy FBO and MAC Air’s FBO operation share a commitment to premium service, operational reliability, and long-term relationships within the business aviation community. Each company has built its reputation around a hospitality-first culture backed by strong operational expertise, creating a seamless experience for aircraft owners, crews, and passengers alike. Strategically, the combination creates valuable geographic synergy between Galaxy’s Texas footprint and MAC Air’s presence in the Northeast, giving customers access to trusted FBO support across key domestic and transatlantic travel corridors. Together, the two operations strengthen Black Forest Ventures’ vertically integrated aviation platform that share similar values, safety standards, and family-oriented cultures.

A Purpose-Built Campus at Portland International Jetport
MAC Air Group’s presence at PWM is anchored by a modern, purpose-built facility developed from the ground up in 2016. The campus spans approximately 28,800 square feet of FBO terminal and hangar space, supported by a 12,960 square foot operations center; creating a seamless environment for passenger services and flight operations alike. A dedicated 12,000 square foot maintenance hangar and parts storage facility rounds out the footprint, giving MAC Air the capacity to support continued growth across its operations.
For more information, please visit macairgroup.com
With this agreement, Galaxy FBO has taken over the existing city-run operations at the Big Spring / McMahon-Wrinkle Airport, including:
- A 4,500-square-foot FBO terminal with pilot and passenger amenities
- Three hangars, totaling over 53,000 square feet of aircraft storage
Galaxy FBO has already begun upgrading the existing FBO terminal, hangars, pilot office and storage facilities to align with the premium standards across its network, creating a refined home for both based tenants and transient operators. Modernization efforts are expected to be completed by June 2026 and will be carried out without disruption to ongoing flight operations. Aircraft operators seeking base hangar opportunities in the region are encouraged to contact Galaxy FBO to request a proposal and learn more about upcoming availability.
“Our expansion to McMahon-Wrinkle Airport represents more than just geographic growth; it’s an investment in the future of West Texas aviation,” said Jamie Munoz, Vice President of Sales at Galaxy FBO. “We’re excited to bring our signature hospitality, efficiency, and elevated service experience to the Big Spring aviation community.”
As demand and interest in the airport continue to rise, Galaxy FBO plans to develop new hangars on a 21-acre parcel north of the existing terminal and west of Taxiway B. The BPG Airport is home to a growing industrial park and sits at a vital crossroads in West Texas, making it an ideal location for general aviation and corporate travel. The addition of Galaxy FBO is expected to support local economic development and provide upgraded services to pilots and passengers alike.



Strategically located along major east-west and north-south flight corridors, Big Spring offers a prime position as a cross-country fuel stop for general and business aviation. McMahon-Wrinkle Airport features two runways, including Runway 18/36 at 8,803 feet in length, capable of accommodating virtually any general aviation aircraft. The airport provides a convenient and efficient refueling option without the congestion or delays of larger metro airports. Its proximity to the Permian Basin, one of the nation’s most active energy regions, also makes it an ideal base of operations for oil and gas industry flights. Just minutes from Midland – Odessa metropolitan area and within easy reach of Texas High Plains, Galaxy FBO at Big Spring delivers quick turns, competitive fuel pricing, and direct access to West Texas industry and commerce.
“Paired with Galaxy FBO’s world-renowned service and hospitality, this expansion secures Big Spring / McMahon-Wrinkle Airport (KBPG)’s place on the map as a premier base for corporate operators, a gateway to the Permian Basin, and a trusted transcontinental fuel stop for discerning flight departments across North America.” said Mike Feeley A.A.E., Airport Director for the Big Spring / McMahon-Wrinkle Airport.
The recognition was celebrated at the 2nd Annual AIN FBO Dinner & Awards Gala, held on March 26, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio—the birthplace of aviation—at the close of the NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference (SDC2026).
Galaxy FBO’s performance in the 2026 survey reflects a continued commitment to delivering a premium experience across all locations:
- Addison (KADS): Maintained a strong position within the Top 10% of all FBOs in North America
- Conroe – North Houston Regional (KCXO): Ranked within the Top 5% of all FBOs in North America
Recognizing Excellence: Above & Beyond
Galaxy FBO team members Jamie Munoz and Maria Roth-Dahl were individually recognized in the 2026 AIN FBO Survey for going “Above & Beyond” in customer service. This distinction highlights the people behind the operation—team members who consistently elevate the experience for pilots, passengers, and operators through professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine care.
Galaxy’s 2026 recognition builds upon a strong track record in the AIN FBO Survey over the past several years:
- 2025: Galaxy FBO locations were ranked among the top FBOs in the United States, with Conroe (CXO) scoring within 5% of the top-ranked facilities
- 2024: Continued national recognition across the network, reinforcing Galaxy’s position as a trusted and consistent operator
These back-to-back acknowledgments demonstrate sustained performance in an industry where service, safety, and reliability are evaluated by the very professionals who depend on them daily. The AIN FBO Survey is based on feedback from pilots and aviation professionals, making it one of the most meaningful indicators of operational excellence in business aviation. For Galaxy FBO, this recognition is not just about rankings, it reflects a culture built around attention to detail, operational discipline, and a commitment to earning trust at every turn. As Galaxy FBO continues to grow its footprint across Texas and invest in new infrastructure, the focus remains the same: delivering a consistent, high-quality experience for every aircraft, every crew, and every passenger.
Since 1981, Aviation International News has been ranking FBOs worldwide among qualified subscribers; pilots, flight attendants, and dispatchers the people who use or make arrangements. Today, a comprehensive list of over 4,500 FBOs worldwide are ranked in the AIN FBO Survey.